A Dialectical System Framework of Modular Construction Policies

Modular construction (MC) is an innovative construction method for enhancing productivity and sustainability. Various countries and regions have adopted explicit policies to promote MC, but the complexity of relevant policies impairs understanding and knowledge sharing. This study develops a dialectical system framework of MC policies through the combination of literature review and content analysis and validates its effectiveness in the case of modular integrated construction (MiC) policies in Hong Kong. The framework addresses MC policies as complex dialectical systems, consisting of the technical system, stakeholder network, and the embedded political, economic, social, technological, environmental, and legal (PESTEL) contexts. The technical system further interprets MC policies in terms of four key components, namely, target and timeline, definition and scope, knowledge and labor, and capital. The framework underscores the interdependency between the technical elements of the policy within their complex and interactive broad contexts. Focusing solely on the technical system is inadequate to understand the policy intentions and may hinder effective policy implementation, highlighting the need to incorporate human behaviors and PESTEL contexts. The case study validates the framework as a theoretical lens to understand and analyze the complexity of MC policies, demonstrating the policy evolution on the four technical components and shaped by the broader PESTEL contexts. The developed framework can provide a foundation to review current policies and guide future policy development of MC.